A member of the clergy uttered the phrase, "Us older clergymen who don't care for women" in my presence today.
I blinked and chose, wisely I presume, not to respond. Perhaps the fact that I am a woman was missed. Perhaps the blunt manner in which it was delivered was meant to sting. I suspect the latter was the intention.
A conversation I had with a deacon later in the day was more enlightening. He suggested that there are many priests, even those I think are open to women and their ministerial gifts, who exalt clericalism. Thus I will never be accepted or acceptable.
When I reflected on these conversations later on, I couldn't help but wonder if the deacon was right and the clergyman's statement was a reflection of the truth as it is, or as it is becoming. Is clericalism becoming rampant as a reaction to the changes the church has experienced, and to the empowerment of the laity? Will my gifts and talents ever be accepted or acceptable?
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2 comments:
Why do i have the sudden urge to come and give a sound lecture in your defense?! Because the church needs you and she needs the laity.
Do you speak of clericalism as a form of sexism? It really does like it unfortunately.
I'm glad this surprises you -- it's nice that you're not jaded.
Some don't like women. Some are afraid of women. And some were raised and taught in the seminary to avoid all women (they;re only there to tempt you, dontcha know).
It's sad really. One wonders if they really understand Gen 1:27.
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